I’d like to share a graphic novel that was awarded the
Best Seller title by both the San Francisco Chronicle and the Los Angeles
Times. It is called Persepolis. There are two books in the series, which
chronicle the early childhood and coming of age of the Iranian author, Marjane
Satrapi. The political instability that led up to the Islamic Revolution in
Iran is an intense story that many may fear to look into. However, the fact
that it is in the graphic novel format forces readers to move on. So I guess we
could say that it is more driven by plot than the normal novel might be. Having
said this, I would like to share a brief description of it, as presented by Spiegelman’s
Maus and Sacco’s Safe Area Goradze and Reed Business Information, Inc.
Descended from the last Emperor of Iran, Satrapi is nine
when fundamentalist rebels overthrow the Shah. While Satrapi's radical parents
and their community initially welcome the ouster, they soon learn a new brand
of totalitarianism is taking over. Satrapi's art is minimal and stark yet often
charming and humorous as it depicts the madness around her. She idolizes those
who were imprisoned by the Shah, fascinated by their tales of torture, and
bonds with her Uncle Anoosh, only to see the new regime imprison and eventually
kill him. Thanks to the Iran-Iraq war, neighbors' homes are bombed, playmates
are killed and parties are forbidden. Satrapi's parents, who once lived in
luxury despite their politics, struggle to educate their daughter. Her father
briefly considers fleeing to America, only to realize the price would be too
great. "I can become a taxi driver and you a cleaning lady?" he asks
his wife. Iron Maiden, Nikes and Michael Jackson become precious symbols of
freedom, and eventually Satrapi's rebellious streak puts her in danger, as even
educated women are threatened with beatings for improper attire. Despite the
grimness, Satrapi never lapses into sensationalism or sentimentality.
Skillfully presenting a child's view of war and her own shifting ideals, she
also shows quotidian life in Tehran and her family's pride and love for their
country despite the tumultuous times.
If you get around to reading it, or even just one of the
two books, write back and tell me what you think. Until next time, stay safe!
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